A bridge partly designed by schoolchildren has been opened as part of a scheme to regenerate a Stockton wildlife spot.

Youngsters from Layfield Primary School worked with artist Graeme Hopper to create the steel footbridge, which crosses Skytering Beck, Willey Flatt Field, Yarm.

Decorated with images of plants and animals, it took three months to build. Nearby, there is seating for visitors.

"The children really entered into it," said Graeme, a Durham-based sculptor. "They came up with all sorts of ideas in the workshops and you can see their input in the final design."

The bridge is part of a £168,000 project to make the area more accessible. This has involved cutting back undergrowth, improving footpaths, installing seats and building a kick-about area and other facilities for youngsters.

It involves Stockton and is expected to be completed before the end of the year.